Dancebox Studios & Theatre Works Ltd is set to take over part of Bedford’s former Beales department store under plans approved by Bedford Borough Council.
An executive decision signed by mayor Tom Wootton yesterday (2 April), recommends granting the organisation a 10-year lease on part of 3 Harpur Street.
Former Beales unit
The proposal relates to a ground-floor unit in the former Beales building.
The report says the move would bring a vacant town centre property back into use, increase footfall and support wider regeneration ambitions in the area.
Under the plan, Dancebox would also have daytime access to the Corn Exchange and Howard Room.
Read: Council urged to make the development of Debenhams and Beales a priority
Aiming to open in 2026
Dancebox is a professional dance training centre and college currently based in Milton Keynes.
According to the council report, the studios offer accredited degree-level courses, sixth-form training, and foundation courses to prepare dancers for careers in commercial dance, cruise lines, musical theatre, and television.
Dancebox Studios & Theatre Works describes itself as a professional dance training centre offering these courses for students aiming for careers in the performing arts.
The organisation says its approach is built around personalised training, with a focus not only on technical ability and creativity but also on resilience and employability.
Alongside studio-based training, it says it places strong emphasis on academic support and pastoral care, with the aim of developing well-rounded performers prepared for the demands of the dance industry.
The organisation is aiming to open in Bedford by September 2026, subject to planning permission.
Read: Beales clean-up to be completed by “end of next week”
Library move
While the current decision only covers the Harpur Street site, the report also refers to a longer-term ambition for the Mayes Yard area.
This could include Dancebox expanding into the upper floors of the nearby library building as part of a future cultural and educational hub.
Read: ‘Mayes Yard’ town centre art space to be discussed at community meeting
The report says any such proposal would need further feasibility work and formal council approval, and could involve relocating the existing central library service.
The decision to grant the lease can still be called in by councillors for scrutiny.
If that does not happen, it can be implemented from Tuesday, 15 April.
By John Guinn, Local Democracy Reporter
Additional reporting by Paul Hutchinson, Bedford Independent
